Once Upon a Hot Take
A book review podcast that covers the books you love (and love to hate). Join us for a hot take every other week, where we cover fantasy, romantasy, romance, historical fiction, thrillers, and everything in between.
BONUS: Alycia E. Anderson author interview
We have another author spotlight: Alycia E. Anderson joins Leah to talk all things reading, writing, obsessive book buying, moming, and much more. Hear Alycia's writer's journey from indie author to being discovered by an agent on social media. You won't want to miss this convo with an absolute delight of a human being.
You can find Alycia in these spots:
Her author websiteTikTokInstagramEpisode 35- Weyward
Weyward by Emilia Hart is the book for today's episode! Leah and Jordan choke down a disgusting cocktail created by Jordan while they unpack all the heartbreak and empowerment of the Weyward women. Get ready for a Steven and Natalie cameo, an unpacking of a truly revolting bug scene, and - BIG NEWS- a new #1 bad dad on the bad dad ranking.
Episode 34- A Court of Frost and Starlight (ACOTAR #4)
Leah and Jordan talk for WAY longer than they thought they would about ACOTAR book 4: A Court of Frost and Starlight. Tune in to hear why Jordan knocks Rhys down a few pegs on her book boyfriend list, Leah vent about Elain, and even more speculation for book 6.
There's a fun new addition to the podcast room, so make sure to check the social media platforms or watch this episode on YouTube so you can see what has Leah giggling even more than usual.
BONUS: James Voorhees author interview
In this conversation, Leah is joined once again by James Voorhees to discuss the release of James's new book, The Lost Champion, the final installment of the Ambassador Chronicle series.
They explore themes of character development, the writing process, and the emotional journey of both the characters and the author. In this conversation, James discusses his experiences as an indie author PANSTER!, the importance of representation in literature, and the challenges of book banning.
Episode 33- A Court of Wings and Ruin (ACOTAR #3)
Leah and Jordan keep riding the ACOTAR train with book #3: A Court of Wings and Ruin. In this episode, the girls lock in their portrayals of some of the main characters, debate the morality of mind reading, fume over the lack of info on mating bonds, and speculate on theories for book #6.
Join them for this unpacking of one of their favorite romantasy series of all times!
Episode 32- A Court of Mist and Fury (ACOTAR #2)
Leah and Jordan continue their coverage of Sarah J. Maas's ACOTAR world with book #2: A Court of Mist and Fury. As Leah likes to say, "This is the PTSD one." But as we mentioned numerous times in our ACOTAR #1 episode, you need to read book 2 in order for book 1 to blow your mind about book 1.
As always, we've got lots of opinions coming in hot, specifically about the cover, title, Tamlin, and questions we feel aren't quite answered.
We've got a KILLER hot take debate: if you DNF a book, can you give...
Episode 31 - Into the Darkest Corner
Guest host Angela joins Leah and Jordan on this week's episode, covering the thriller Into the Darkest Corner by Elizabeth Haynes. Get ready for a shocking FMK segment, a disgusting character cocktail, and a summary that will knock your socks off. Leah, Jordan, and Ang all play on the same softball team, so there'll be some good-humored roasting, plenty of laughing (Leah does a literal spit take bc she laughs so hard), and stay tuned til the very end for a SUPER special musical segment (#whitney) IYKYK
Episode 30: Into the Blue Crossover with Chatting Chapters
On this special episode, Leah is joined by Paris with the Chatting Chapters podcast from down under! This crossover includes segments from both podcasts, plenty of laughs, and of course, a number of hot takes. The gals chat about Into the Blue: A Love Story by Emma Brodie. If you like Star Trek (neither of us have seen it), drama, will-they-won't-they romance, a witty FMC, nepo baby Hollywood hottie, deep yearning, and a meddlesome aunt, you will enjoy this book and this episode.
Chatting Chapters contact info:
instagram @chattingchapterspodcast
Chattingchapterspodcast@gmail...
Episode 29: Honey and Heat
Guest host Kelsey joins Leah in their discussion on Honey and Heat by Aurora Palit, a contemporary workplace enemies-to-lovers romance featuring Cynthia Kumar and Rohit Patel. The story explores themes of family, identity, and empowerment. It was the Loom & Lore book club pick for the month of July, so Leah and Kelsey share out some of the topics discussed at book club.
Loom & Lore website
'
BONUS: Anniversary episode 🎉
Once Upon a Hot Take podcast is 1 year old! Come celebrate with Leah and Jordan as they reminisce about their favorite (and least favorite) moments of podcasting for a whole year. Also, if Exactly Right Media is looking, we are available to be added to your lineup 😉
Episode 27: Butcher and Blackbird
This is the episode in which Leah's husband Paul guest hosts and cashes in his lost bet. The internet voted and determined the married couple would cover Butcher and Blackbird by Brynne Weaver.
The husband and wife duo discuss all the usual segments of the pod: character cocktails, FMK, highs/lows, but with the added twist of married couple banter.
Tune in to hear Paul's hot takes on this dark romance.
Episode 26: Quicksilver
Bet you didn't know folding towels could be a hot take debate! In this episode, Leah and guest host Laura react to Quicksilver by Callie Hart. They kick things off with sisterly banter and then jump into a great idea for a book maturity rating system.
The sisters unpack all your beloved (and hated) characters, including Saeris, Kingfisher, Carrion, and Onyx, while debating the book’s world-building, spice level, cover design, and whether the vampire rules make sense. If you love romantasy, morally gray heroes, chaotic magic systems, and highly opinionated book talk, this episode is...
Episode 25: Lumina Literary Tour interview
Come hang out with Leah as she chats with Kate and April, the creators behind Lumnia Literary Tours, the women-only tour group for bookish travelers. Find out what inspires the upcoming tours, how long it takes to plan a tour, who should come on one of these amazing adventures, and speculate what "cone chicken" is in France. 🤔
Episode 24: ACOTAR #1
It is time! Leah and Jordan finallllllly discuss Sarah J Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses. And it did not disappoint. Both Leah and Jordan had very different opinions on a re-read and were even able to change each other's minds on some aspects. This episode ONLY focuses on book 1, so those of you who haven't finished the series are safe to listen to this episode!
Episode 23: Twilight movie crossover with My Best Friend's Book Club!
Once Upon a Hot Take teams up with fellow book lovers Claire and Yana of My Best Friend's Book Club to bring you allllllll of the hot takes on the iconic Twilight movie.
Episode 22: Indie Author Interviews #2
Well, we had so much fun with the first one, we decided to do it again! Leah is joined by 4 more indie authors to talk about their tips and tricks of the trade, promote their books, and get the hottest of takes on anything and everything that goes into the book-writing, editing, and publishing process.
Take a listen to find your next read, learn some tricks of the trade, or simply enjoy as some of these wonderful humans share their story. ♥️
Contact info for today’s authors:
Jess Je...
Episode 21- The Red Letter
This episode covers Daniel G. Miller's The Red Letter: part thriller, part murder mystery. Leah and Jordan share their stellar picks for a screen adaptation, discuss Hazel's insane Red Bull obsession, and laugh over some cold takes. Dive into this adventure with this bookish dynamic duo!
Episode 20- Indie Author Interviews
We are SOOO excited to share our very first indie author-themed episode! Leah interviewed 5 amazing indie authors who shared all their wisdom and hot takes on the writing process, why they chose self-publishing vs. traditional publishing, their collective hate for editing 😆, and –of course– many, many laughs.
We hope you find some new books to add to the TBR or gain some inspiration to finally start writing that book that you’ve had in your mind for so long.
Contact info for today’s authors:
Nikai’s book: The S...
Episode 19- Hamnet (book + movie)
This episode covers the book Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell. Leah and Jordan also add their hot takes regarding the movie. Notable topics include the etymology of the phrase "eat crow," an excellent nickname for one of the worst characters, a heated argument in the FMK segment, and a true appreciate for capital "L" literature.
Episode 18- Project Hail Mary (book + movie)
In this episode, we explore Andy Weir's Project Hail Mary, discussing the differences between the book and movie, character development, scientific accuracy, and the emotional impact of the story. Join us for a deep dive into sci-fi storytelling and filmmaking insights. We share hot takes, favorite moments, and insights into the science and characters that make this story a must-listen for sci-fi fans and newcomers alike. This episode includes a special guest segment where the husbands get some airtime, sharing their hot takes. Spoilers: some of their takes are HOT.
Keywords:
Project...
Episode 17- Benevolent Ball Interview
In this special episode, Leah and Jordan interview Samantha, the host of the Benevolent Ball, who shares insights about planning the upcoming fantasy ball, the Fractured Heavens Masquerade. She discusses the charitable aspect of the ball and the pre-ball market, offering a glimpse into the immersive world of fantasy balls. We get a behind-the-scenes look at planning and organizing a fantasy-themed event. Samantha shares insights into costume attire, who should attend, and what to do if you've never been to a fantasy ball before.
Benevolent Ball website to find more info about the ball and...
Episode 16- Delta County
Delta County by J.L. Hyde follows the story of Heather, who moves back to her idyllic small town in the UP, only to find out it's not as quaint and unassuming as she remembers. Leah and Jordan share their hot takes on e-readers, drinking culture, college housing, and much more! If you like Colleen Hoover and Freida McFadden, Delta County is right up your alley.
Takeaways
E-readers vs. Physical BooksCharacter Analysis: Ryan and Heather UP Culture and High School NostalgiaAlcohol Culture and College Experiences Small town dramaCharacter portrayalsBook recommendationsChapters
...Episode 15- Throne of Glass (book 1 only)
Tune in to Leah and Jordan's coverage of Throne of Glass. They butcher some name pronunciations, share their best/worst parts of the book, debate the merits of love triangles, pick some excellent actor choices, and share some theories about the rest of the series.
Episode 14 - The Legend of Soli Duna (plus author interview!)
Join Jordan and Leah as they unpack the grand adventure in the debut novel by indie author Brian Maes! This fantasy story is book 1 in a series currently under way. Leah and Jordan discuss all the fantasy tropes they love about this book, from magic to immortals, element control to alternate dimensions.
They also have a special author interview for the second half of the episode! Brian gives his hot takes on the writing process, discusses his choice to go the self-publishing route, where his inspiration has come from, and so much more! Listen in to hear...
Episode 13 - Book Lovers
To celebrate Valentine's Day, Leah and Jordan are coving the romance novel Book Lovers by Emily Henry. Tune in to hear all of their hot takes (and differing opinions!) on the book and the romance genre in general. From character analysis to actor portrayals to character cocktails, they are covering it all for this romance novel full of witty banter!
Episode 12 - Chasing Tigers in the Dark (plus author interview)
Leah and Jordan dive into the life of author Ally Shaw in her debut memoir Chasing Tigers in the Dark: Life Lessons of a Fierce Survivor. Ally brings her positive energy onto the page as she tells her stories of the multiple traumas that have plagued her life and how she has processed this trauma and has learned life lessons along the way in the hopes of helping others in similar situations. Her strength, bravery, intentionality, Christianity, and positivity shine a bright light on all who pick up this book!
There is a special author interview with...
Episode 11 - The Best and Worst Reads of Our 2025
Leah and Jordan discuss their favorites and least favorites from their reads in 2025! Best and worst characters, favorite worlds, most unhinged plot twists, FMK, hot takes on Onyx Storm, and much more! Stay tuned to the very end for bloopers on the Goodreads 2025 Year in Books discovery.
Episode 10 - In A Holidaze
Tune in to listen to Leah and Jordan discuss all things "In A Holidaze" by Christina Lauren. This charming holiday read is sure to give you all the warm feelings that come with this time of year all wrapped up in a nice rom-com bow. They cover character analysis on Maelyn , Andrew, Theo and Benny. They talk about favorite childhood games and sledding. This episode is full of charm and laughs! Happy Holidays to all!
Episode 9- The Women
Leah and Jordan take on Kristin Hannah's juggernaut The Women. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll rage, but above all, you'll enjoy these two friends recapping the powerful Vietnam War story that will stick with you for days after finishing, much like the book.
Episode 8- In The Blood (plus author interview)
Join Leah and Jordan as they dive into the magical worlds created by debut author Kristen Cari! The coverage on this gripping romantasy is followed up with a special interview with Kristen herself. Listen to hear all about her inspiration, writing process, and so much more!
Episode 7- Twilight
Does the story stand the test of time? Tune in to listen to Leah and Jordan discuss and debate all things Twilight 20 years later!
Episode 6- These Tangled Vines
Join Leah and Jordan as they discuss all the ups and downs they felt with These Tangled Vines.
Episode 5- The Ex Hex
Listen in as Leah and Jordan discuss (and gush) over a fall favorite read that has won over their witchy hearts!
Episode 4- Portrait of a Thief
Dive into the high stakes world of art heists with Jordan and Leah as they give their reviews on the debut novel Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li.
Special Episode- The Life of a Showgirl
Leah and Jordan have special guest Laura on to discuss all things The Life of a Showgirl.
Episode 3- The Silent Patient
Listen to Leah and Jordan give their hot takes (and frustrations) on the mystery thriller, The Silent Patient.
Episode 2- Six of Crows
Daring heist, rough and ragged crew, questionably moral characters, and chilly settings: join us as we discuss Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows!
Episode 1- Bridgerton: The Duke & I
Meddlesome mothers, toxic relationships, handsome men: what more could you ask for in a book review podcast's premier episode!
Intro to the pod 🔥 📚
Listen here to find out what Once Upon a Hot Take is all about. 🔥
